Part of Wall Street in Kingston honored as one of nation's '10 Great Streets of 2012' (updated)

These houses on Wall Street are between Pearl and Main streets. (Freeman photo by Tania Barricklo)

KINGSTON, N.Y. -- The eight-block section of Wall Street from Franklin to North Front streets has been designated one the "10 Great Streets for 2012" by the American Planning Association.

The designation, part of the association's Great Places in America program, recognizes exceptional character and highlights the roles that planning and planners play in adding value to communities, including fostering economic growth and jobs, according to the association.

The association said it recognized Wall Street for its historic character, many well-preserved buildings, pedestrian scale and variety of uses.

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"Wall Street is a mixture of past and present, where historic buildings meet contemporary needs," association Chief Executive Officer Paul Farmer said in a prepared statement. "Evolving block by block, the thoroughfare is at the center of the commercial, political, cultural and religious activities that shape daily life in Kingston."

Mayor Shayne Gallo said on Tuesday that he was "proud" that Wall Street was recognized, especially during the tough times his city is facing.

"I am very pleased and honored that the city has received this award," Gallo said. "It is very fitting to have recognition, particularly at a time when we have so many problems and challenges."

City Planner Suzanne Cahill said the designation is significant.

"I think that it's is a recognition of the assets of the city, and it is also a recognition that having this bestowed upon the city ... will not only attract additional tourism but also an appreciation for the neighborhood that exists," Cahill said.

Alderman Thomas Hoffay, whose ward includes part of Wall Street, said the street is unique, particularly because of the sidewalk canopies between John and North Front streets.

"It is a distinguishing characteristic of the city," said Hoffay, D-Ward 2. "It is what distinguishes the city from many others around the country, without a doubt."

Hoffay also cited Wall Street's various buildings, streetscape and religious institutions, including the historic Old Dutch Church, among its assets.

Through the Great Places in America program, the American Planning Association recognizes streets, neighborhoods and public spaces featuring unique and authentic characteristics that have evolved from years of thoughtful and deliberate planning by residents, community leaders and planners.

The nine other streets honored this year are Broadway in Saratoga Springs, Fifth Avenue in New York City and thoroughfares in Key West, Fla., Kansas City, Mo., Bozeman, Mont., Cleveland-Shaker Heights-Beachwood, Ohio, Pittsburgh, Pa., Charleston, S.C. and Knoxville, Tenn.

Since the association began Great Places in America in 2007, 60 neighborhoods, 60 streets and 50 public spaces have been designated in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.